Source For Mainspring Barrel

[nboyer]

Can someone help me out with a source for a mainspring barrel complete for a 1520 movement? I suppose, what I really need is the barrel part. The original barrel's wall is pretty worn and I think is a source for low amplitude as the mainspring is unable to wind to proper tension. Not sure I want to get a used one off eBay, which most likely would also be worn out. Cheers! -Norm

[ROLLiWORKS]

the 1520 mainspring is different than all the one used on 1560 1570 1575 etc. The 1520 MS is thicker with more tension. You should purchase the barrel and spring separate. You should check the upper and lower bushing as these are usually in need of replacement for the cal 15xx series. the outside top or bottom bottom of the barrel will shows signs of rubbing.

[nboyer]

Thanks Michael, appreciate the insight. Now, where to find a 1520 barrel complete? Hmm. Cheers! -Norm

[ROLLiWORKS]

We can help you with this but you’re doing the work yourself?


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[SearChart]

Originally Posted by ROLLiWORKS

the 1520 mainspring is different than all the one used on 1560 1570 1575 etc. The 1520 MS is thicker with more tension. You should purchase the barrel and spring separate. You should check the upper and lower bushing as these are usually in need of replacement for the cal 15xx series. the outside top or bottom bottom of the barrel will shows signs of rubbing.

The bushings are a very good point, I'd imagine these to be impossible to replace for a hobbyist as you'll need to do it dead straight and need some specific tools (Rolex minilathe)...

I replace the balance staff on every 15×× because 99 out of a 100 need replacing anyway. Don't think you want to fiddle with that OP, might be best to send it in, just a thought.

[ROLLiWORKS]

Geez really? Well balance staff will never be the issue!


Yep Rolex mini lathe. It's the best tool for the job!

[SearChart]

The pivots are often worn and you'll just get better results with a new one. Not always a must but it's in the routine now

[nboyer]

Bas - I would think that my jeweling tool would be able to handle the job? This is what I used to replace the upper jewel on the autowinder. As for the balance staff, I have a fair amount of experience replacing them in pocket watches, though admittedly have not replaced one in a wrist watch. Those buggers are a lot smaller for sure. But, there is always a first for everything Cheers! -Norm

Originally Posted by SearChart

The bushings are a very good point, I'd imagine these to be impossible to replace for a hobbyist as you'll need to do it dead straight and need some specific tools (Rolex minilathe)...

I replace the balance staff on every 15×× because 99 out of a 100 need replacing anyway. Don't think you want to fiddle with that OP, might be best to send it in, just a thought.

[nboyer]

Yep, doing myself. Just paid through the nose for one on eBay, but this is a watch that will be in my personal collection. Cheers! -Norm

Originally Posted by ROLLiWORKS

We can help you with this but you’re doing the work yourself?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[nboyer]

The old one crumbled when I pushed it out. The new one in. Cheers! -Norm

[SearChart]

Originally Posted by nboyer

Bas - I would think that my jeweling tool would be able to handle the job? This is what I used to replace the upper jewel on the autowinder. As for the balance staff, I have a fair amount of experience replacing them in pocket watches, though admittedly have not replaced one in a wrist watch. Those buggers are a lot smaller for sure. But, there is always a first for everything Cheers! -Norm

I've never done it with one of those but it should be possible.